About sal

Sal Bednarz is the founder and owner of Actual Cafe, and the driving force behind Victory Burger. Through the founding and operation of Actual Cafe, he has helped revitalize the North Oakland Golden Gate District, and helped anchor an intersection which had been largely devoid of businesses for years.
Sal loves a good hamburger. After eating a lot of mediocre ones (even some of the new burgers in the area), along with some excellent (but very expensive) ones, he became convinced that there was a market for a well-prepared burger, made from great ingredients, and served in a casual environment. Inspired by the burgeoning street food movement, he decided to focus on a small number of menu items, and execute them really well. This is the simple concept that begat Victory Burger.
Prior to Victory Burger and Actual Cafe, Sal has had multiple careers, in technology, music, jewelry-making, and as a laborer in various trades. He is a 21-year resident of Oakland, and an 11-year resident of the Golden Gate District. He is passionate about the current Oakland renaissance, and proud to be a part of it.

* it’s Happy Hour – don’t go hungry (or thirsty)!

We close our dining room from 3-5 on weekdays, but our kitchen remains open until 4:30. During this time, our entire menu is available next door at Actual Cafe, along with draft beer pitchers for $10 off and other happy hour specials.